When it comes to satisfying your carnivorous cravings, there’s nothing quite like a juicy steak or tender chop. But as a protein lover on a diet, it can be tough to balance your love for meat with the need to keep your calorie count in check. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 savory recipes that are sure to hit the spot without derailing your dietary goals.
From classic cuts like grilled ribeye steak and slow-cooked beef brisket, to more adventurous options like pan-seared lamb chops and roasted quail, these recipes showcase the rich flavors and textures that only a perfectly cooked piece of meat can provide. And with a focus on leaner meats and portion-controlled serving sizes, you’ll be able to indulge in your favorite carnivorous cravings without feeling guilty or compromising your diet.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these mouth-watering recipes, exploring the techniques and ingredients that make them so deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re a steak lover, a chicken fanatic, or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, you won’t want to miss out on these 20 savory carnivore diet recipes.
Grilled Ribeye Steak with Herb Butter
A classic combination of tender grilled ribeye steak and rich herb butter elevates this dish to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pound ribeye steak
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, mix butter, garlic, parsley, and chives in a small bowl.
5. Once steak is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Spread herb butter evenly over the top of each slice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Lamb Chops with Garlic
Elevate your lamb chops game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic with a crispy pan-sear.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (6 oz each)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the lamb chops with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated skillet.
4. Sear the lamb chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the lamb chops from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet.
7. Cook the garlic for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
8. Serve the lamb chops with the pan-seared garlic spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket
This classic slow-cooked beef brisket recipe yields a mouthwatering, fall-apart tender result with minimal effort. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the brisket with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together onion, garlic, beef broth, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
4. Place the brisket in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and succulent bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each piece of bacon around the pork, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Get ready to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and impressive recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Thread shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to not overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking.
– Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice or roasted vegetables!
Juicy Turkey Burgers without Buns
Elevate your burger game with this juicy turkey patty recipe, perfect for a low-carb twist on the classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Gently flatten each ball into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
4. Place the patties onto the preheated grill or grill pan and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. If using cheese, place slices on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Enjoy your juicy turkey burgers hot, topped with your favorite condiments and sides!
Roasted Duck Breast with Crispy Skin
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and impressive recipe for roasted duck breast, featuring crispy skin and a tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 duck breasts (about 1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the duck breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the mixture evenly over both breasts, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Fried Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional salmon dishes, this recipe combines the richness of pan-frying with a tangy lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add the softened butter to the preheated pan and let it melt.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the fish is cooked halfway through.
6. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the salmon is cooking, whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, and parsley in a small bowl.
8. Remove the salmon from the pan and place on a plate.
9. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top of each fillet.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef Liver Pâté with Onions
A rich and savory pâté perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef liver, finely chopped
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the chopped beef liver to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. If using cognac, add it to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Use a blender or food processor to puree the mixture until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chicken Wings with Ranch Dip
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this mouthwatering combination of spicy chicken wings and creamy ranch dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Add garlic powder and salt; mix well.
4. Toss chicken wings with the spicy mixture until fully coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange wings in a single layer. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare ranch dip by stirring in chopped cilantro or scallions (if using).
7. Serve hot chicken wings with warm ranch dip for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
A classic rack of lamb recipe gets a flavorful boost from a fragrant herb crust, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) rack of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest.
3. Season the lamb rack with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the lamb rack, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Place the lamb on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Cooking Time:
– 1-2 hours, depending on lamb size and desired level of doneness.
Smoked Pork Belly Strips
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional barbecue, these smoked pork belly strips are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch strips
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pork belly strips in a large bowl and toss with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. Smoke pork belly strips for 4-5 hours or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Grilled Venison Steak with Rosemary
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe brings together the rich taste of venison steak and the herbaceousness of rosemary. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 venison steaks (depending on size)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush venison steaks with olive oil on both sides.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary.
4. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached (medium-rare recommended).
5. Let steaks rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Beef Meatballs in Bone Broth
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This recipe combines tender beef meatballs with rich bone broth, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups bone broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the bone broth in a large pot over medium-low heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the bone broth and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: Total time: 30-35 minutes. Cooking time: 18-20 minutes (meatballs), 10-15 minutes (simmering).
Seared Tuna Steak with Sesame Crust
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the freshness of tuna with the nutty flavor of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for searing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sesame seeds, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
3. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Coat each tuna steak evenly with the sesame crust mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat with 1-2 tbsp of oil or butter.
6. Sear the tuna steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes total
Roasted Quail with Thyme
A classic game bird dish, roasted quail is a flavorful and elegant main course. This recipe pairs the quail with fragrant thyme for a savory and aromatic result.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quail
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the quail under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each quail with the thyme mixture, dividing it evenly among the birds.
5. Place the quail on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bird.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the quail are cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb Kebabs with Mint Garnish
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this classic lamb kebab recipe, perfectly seasoned and served with a refreshing mint garnish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 20-25 metal skewers
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin.
3. Add lamb cubes and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction
Transform tender short ribs into a rich and flavorful dish by slow-cooking them in red wine, resulting in fall-off-the-bone meat and a deep, fruity sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion to pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falling off the bone.
8. Remove from oven and let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter mixture to the pan, letting it melt and slightly foam.
4. Carefully place the scallops in the pan, leaving some space between each. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until they develop a golden brown color.
5. Flip the scallops and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with chopped parsley (if using), garnishing with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Grilled Chicken Thighs with Crispy Skin
This recipe yields juicy grilled chicken thighs with a satisfying crunch from the crispy skin.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. If using brown sugar, sprinkle it on both sides of the chicken.
5. Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Close the lid and cook for 5-6 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and protein-packed recipes to fuel your carnivore diet? Look no further! This collection of 20 savory recipes is perfect for meat lovers. From grilled ribeye steak with herb butter to pan-seared lamb chops with garlic, slow-cooked beef brisket to bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, you’ll find seafood options like garlic butter shrimp skewers and pan-fried salmon with lemon butter sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger or a flavorful wing, there’s something for everyone in this impressive lineup of carnivore diet recipes.
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